France Dismisses Mali Rebel Independent Nation Claims

In northern Mali, Tuareg rebels proclaimed independence Friday, and asked for international recognition of their so-called “Azawad” nation.

France, the former territorial colonial power, quickly responded by dismissing the rebels’ declaration. French Defense Minister Gerard Longuet said a unilateral declaration of independence that is not recognized by African countries has no meaning. In a statement on their website declaring independence, the rebels of The National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad, or MNLA, said they would respect borders with other states.